Perhaps you have spotted it before. Right here before us stands the Houbara Bustard Sculpture. It is more than just art. The Houbara Bustard Sculpture embodies the spirit of Fuerteventura.
The Canarian houbara is a subspecies of the houbara bustard. It is unique to this part of the world. The Canarian houbara is the animal symbol of Fuerteventura. This sculpture celebrates this special bird.
These birds are not migrants. They live here year-round. The sculpture reminds us of their constant presence. The Canarian houbara has lived in the Canary Islands for a long time. Evidence suggests they have been here for 130000 years.
Genetic data shows a more recent separation. About 20000 to 25000 years ago, they became distinct. This isolation made them unique. Look closely at the sculpture. Notice the details that set it apart. Canarian houbaras are smaller. They have less sandy coloring. The markings on their backs are darker. It is the largest bird native to the Canary Islands.
The Houbara Bustard Sculpture, a metal artwork, stands as a tribute to this bird. The sculpture is a reminder of their habitat. They live in semi-arid plains. They also live on rocky hills. You can find them in sparsely vegetated areas. They avoid human settlements. They also avoid cornfields and forests.
Outside of breeding season, they gather in small groups. When breeding, the males defend their territories. Courtship happens from December to March. The males display their plumage. The females lay eggs between February and April. They lay them in a scrape on the ground. Usually only one chick survives.
These birds eat many things. They consume arthropods and molluscs. They also eat small vertebrates and plants. Chicks need insects to grow properly. The Houbara Bustard Sculpture also highlights conservation. The Canarian houbara population is threatened. Habitat destruction is a major problem. Tourism and illegal hunting also pose threats. Collisions with powerlines are dangerous. Even truffle collectors disturb them.
The Action Plan in 1995 estimated about 700 birds. A later study counted only 177 on Fuerteventura. They are classified as endangered in Spain. They are protected by law. Let’s appreciate this sculpture. It symbolizes a precious species. It connects us to the natural world. It inspires us to protect it.